Barbering Apprenticeship Program
Master the Art of Grooming
The barbering industry is rapidly growing, with modern barbershops offering full grooming experiences that go far beyond a traditional haircut. Above The Rest Academy’s Barbering Apprenticeship Program in Ontario, California prepares students for successful careers through a combination of hands-on, on-the-job training and structured classroom instruction.
This registered barbering apprenticeship builds a strong foundation in classic barbering techniques while incorporating modern styles, tools, and grooming services used in today’s barbershops and salons. Through comprehensive theory and real-world experience, students develop the technical skills, professionalism, and confidence needed to succeed in today’s evolving grooming industry.
As a barbering apprentice, students train directly in a licensed barbershop or salon while completing required classroom education with Above The Rest Academy, preparing them for California State Board barber licensing.
Training for a Successful Barbering Career
Our barbering apprenticeship curriculum is designed to help students build confidence, precision, and career-ready skills. Apprentices receive hands-on training in cutting, shaving, styling, and grooming, along with essential business and customer service skills needed to attract and retain clients.
With clear guidance, structured learning, and focused preparation for the California State Board Barber Exam, graduates are ready to begin their careers—whether working in a professional barbershop, providing mobile services, or eventually opening their own barbering business.
Serving Students Throughout Southern California
While based in Ontario, California, this program serves students throughout Southern California, including the Inland Empire, Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, High Desert, Coachella Valley, and surrounding regions.
Students complete classroom instruction with Above The Rest Academy while training locally at an approved barbershop or salon.
Program Highlights
Program Type
Barbering Apprenticeship
Language of Instruction
English
Training Model
On-the-job training combined with classroom instruction
Total Hours Required
3,420 hours
Program Length
21–24 months
Outcome
Eligibility to apply for the California State Board Barber Licensing Exam
Location
Ontario, California
Service Area
Serving Southern California
Barbering Career Pathways
Traditional & Workplace Barbering
- Traditional & Modern Barbering
- Barber in a Barbershop
- Barber in a Salon
- Mobile Barber (House Calls)
- Barber in Senior Care Facilities
Business Ownership & Management
- Shop Owner
- Franchise Barbershop Owner
- Booth Renter
- Barbershop Manager
Education & Training
- Apprenticeship Trainer
- Barber Instructor*
- Traveling Educator for Schools
- Educator for Clipper or Grooming Companies
Specialty Barbering Services
- Kids’ Barber
- Men’s Grooming Specialist
- Beard & Mustache Specialist
- Loc Maintenance & Grooming
- Hair Replacement Specialist (Non-Surgical)
- Fade & Design Specialist
Entertainment, Media & Creative Industries
- Film, TV & Entertainment Groomer
- Hollywood / On-Set Groomer
- Commercial & Advertising Groomer
- Music Video or Production Groomer
- Celebrity Personal Barber
- Hair Show Platform Artist
Alternative, Institutional & Travel Barbering
- Theme Park or Studio Grooming Staff
- Military Base Barber
- Military Contractor Barber
- Corrections Facility Barber (Prisons/Jails)
- Mortuary Barber (Funeral Homes)
- Cruise Ship Barber
- Resort or Spa Barber
- Emergency Shelter or Nonprofit Barber
Branding, Media & Industry Influence
- Product Ambassador or Brand Educator
- Social Media Influencer (Content, Tutorials, Reviews)
- YouTube / Online Educator
- Barber Product Line Owner (Combs, Oils, Tools)
- Barber Trade Show Presenter
- Barber Competition Judge
Events, Sports & Pop-Up Opportunities
- Barber for Sports Teams & Athletes
- Event or Competition Barber
- Pop-Up Barbering for Festivals